Secondly, I tested their interpretations of implementing literacy strategies against their actual lesson plans and observations of lessons. Lastly, the comparison of lesson plans to actual lessons and to interviews allowed me to practice triangulation of the data. To ensure confirm ability, or the objectivity of the research, I triangulate the data (as described earlier) and reflected on the assumptions that I as a researcher have towards mathematics and literacy. Dependability was ensured through the examination of lessons the participants claim teach literacy skills and those they claim do not, and by comparing the interview questions to actions taken when teaching a lesson. In order to obtain informed consent from the participants I first emailed each participant with an overview of what I was asking of them. I explained my background with mathematics and literacy and why I had chosen the topic. In the request I also attached a copy of the consent form that I will bring wit me to the initial interview. Before the interview I revisited the consent form and reminded each participant that they could choose not to answer any question or end the interview if they chose.